29 Salad Recipes Where Health And Comfort Coexist Perfectly

Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring, and comfort doesn’t have to mean heavy. These 29 salads meet right in the middle, delivering big flavors without the extra effort. Whether you want to clean out your fridge or just switch up dinner, there’s an easy way to make it work.

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you enjoy bursts of flavor, you might want to try this one. Inspired by Mexican street food, it transforms simple ingredients into a hearty dish. Mexican Street Corn Salad is perfect for anyone looking for a bit of crunch and spice. It’s especially good when you want something different from your typical greens.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Curried Chicken Salad

Close-up of a dish featuring a creamy yellow curry with chunks of vegetables, cashews, and raisins, garnished with fresh herbs.
Curried Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Are you trying to add a little kick to your lunch options? With its unique blend, this salad brings a bit of spice without overwhelming the senses. Curried Chicken Salad is a go-to for those who like a bit of international flair in their meals. Now, who said salads were boring?
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re craving tacos but want something lighter, this fun twist has you covered. It includes everything you love about tacos, served in a convenient form. Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe is not only super easy to put together but also a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties or a quick family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Kala Chana Chaat

Kala chana chaat served in a blue bowl.
Kala Chana Chaat. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

For those who enjoy Indian street food flavors, here’s a robust salad option. Kala Chana Chaat combines tangy and spicy tones in a fulfilling way. It’s rich in nutrients and keeps you full longer, which is great for busy days. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to spice up your diet.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Need a fiber-rich meal that keeps you powered for hours? This hearty option does just that. Dense Bean Salad is filled with various beans, offering texture and flavor. It’s ideal for meal preps and busy weeknights. Keep this one in mind when you need a fulfilling salad that’s easy to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, you just need a bit of comfort food. This classic is creamy and satisfies cravings for something hearty. Macaroni Salad is a popular choice at gatherings and family dinners. It pairs well with almost anything, making it a versatile addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Grilled Paneer Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring grilled tofu cubes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and leafy greens, all drizzled with a creamy dressing.
Grilled Paneer Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re a fan of grilled flavors and cheese, this could be your new favorite. Grilled Paneer Salad features charred pieces of paneer tossed with fresh greens. It’s a lovely combination of smoke and freshness. Simple yet flavorful, it’s great for a light lunch or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Paneer Salad

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Love pizza but want to keep things light? This creative salad captures the essence of pizza in a fresh and vibrant way. Pizza Salad is for those days when you want comfort food without the heaviness. It’s definitely a conversation starter!
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Perfect for seafood lovers, with a spicy twist. The shrimp are seasoned and blackened to perfection, paired with a smooth dressing. Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a treat for your palate. It’s both indulgent and refreshing, a rare combo in salads.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Laccha Pyaz

Close-up of thinly sliced red onions, marinated with herbs and spices, placed on a white plate.
Laccha Pyaz. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you enjoy adding a bit of zing to your meals, check this out. Laccha Pyaz consists of thinly sliced onions with a tangy dressing. It works well alongside heavier dishes to balance out flavors. Great for those who appreciate a sharper taste in their salads.
Get the Recipe: Laccha Pyaz

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A timeless favorite, particularly at picnics and family gatherings. Potato Salad is creamy, comforting, and universally loved. Whether you’re pairing it with barbecue or sandwiches, it holds its own. Think of it as the reliable choice that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for something with a bit of heat? This salad combines spicy chicken with cooler salad elements for a thrilling taste experience. Buffalo Chicken Salad is bold in flavor and worthwhile. It’s a wonderful blend of heat from the buffalo sauce and crispness from the greens.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Cabbage Salad

Cabbage salad in a white bowl with chips in the background.
Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

For those who enjoy simplicity, this is a staple. Cabbage Salad is crunchy and fresh, serving as a great side dish or a light meal. It’s easy to throw together last minute. Ideal for adding a refreshing touch to any meal without overwhelming it.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Healthy Chicken Salad

Close-up of a salad with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing on a bed of leafy greens.
Healthy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Trying to watch what you eat but still want flavor? This salad proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health. Healthy Chicken Salad is packed with protein and dressed lightly. It’s perfect for those who want something quick, nutritious, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For broccoli lovers, here’s a dish that showcases this green powerhouse. Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing mixes the crisp texture of broccoli with a decadent dressing. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy greens in a more indulgent form. Perfect for those who love richer salad options.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Cucumber Peanut Salad

A bowl of chopped cucumber salad mixed with nuts and fresh herbs.
Cucumber Peanut Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Looking for a crunch? This is all about texture and nutty flavors. Cucumber Peanut Salad blends crunchy cucumbers with peanuts in a tasty dressing. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking something light yet flavorful, perfect as a snack or a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet, spicy, and everything nice. This combination makes for a thrilling eating experience. Hot Honey Chicken Salad features a sweet and spicy dressing over tender chicken strips. It’s a great pick for anyone who wants to mix up their salad routine with something bold and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Perfect when you want a bit of everything. This layered delight is a visual and flavorful treat. 7 Layer Salad packs in variety and texture, making every bite interesting. It’s an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings where you want to impress without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Love a bit of classic touch in your meals? This is a well-loved American classic with a harmony of ingredients. Cobb Salad is both filling and balanced, featuring a range of components from proteins to greens. Great for a fulfilling meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Kachumber

Kachumber salad in a grey bowl.
Kachumber. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Enjoy the fresh, vibrant tastes of a traditional Indian salad. Kachumber is simple yet refreshing with its mix of diced vegetables and herbs. Ideal for complementing rich meals or as a standalone dish during warm days. It’s light, healthy, and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Roasted beetroot and feta salad in a bowl, with a light pink cloth around it.
Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fancy something earthy with a salty kick? The pairing in this salad offers deep, roasted flavors with creamy feta. Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad is a great choice for anyone looking for a gourmet salad experience at home. It’s sure to please those who enjoy a more refined salad.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combine the comfort of pasta with the freshness of grilled vegetables. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is vibrant, making it perfect for outdoor meals or hearty side dishes. It’s versatile and keeps well, ideal for picnics or meal-prepping.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate.
Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Prefer something hearty yet nutritious? This salad combines wholesome ingredients that satisfy. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad is filling, packed with flavor from the roasting process. It’s wonderful for those who prefer their salads a bit more substantial.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A classic you might have heard of, known for its unique mix of ingredients. Crunchy, sweet, and creamy, Waldorf Salad is a gratifying mix of textures. It’s a classic choice for a reason, beloved by many for its enjoyable crunch and wholesome ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If layers are your thing, this one will not disappoint. Seven Layer Salad is visually appealing and delicious with its diverse layers. Perfect for gatherings where you want a standout dish. Each layer brings its own flavor, making every forkful exciting.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Chunks of tomato, cucumber, and onion in a bowl.
Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you crave something light and refreshing, this simple salad is a staple in many homes. Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad is known for its crisp and juicy texture. It’s a no-fuss dish that’s perfect for a quick side or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a tangy crunch to add to your meal? This vibrant salad brings color and zing to the table. Red Cabbage Coleslaw is a staple at barbecue events but works just as well with indoor meals. Its bright colors make it a cheerful addition.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a bit of Asian flair with this spicy, crunchy salad. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is known for its intense flavor and unique texture. It’s a great side dish for those who love a bit of heat and freshness in their meals. Enjoy it with barbecue or as a standalone snack.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Enjoy apples in a new way with this crisp and invigorating mix. Honeycrisp Salad combines sweet apples with fresh greens. It’s perfect for those who like a sweet touch in their salads. Ideal for an afternoon refreshment or a light lunch.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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